(MENAFN- Gulf Times) Several days have passed since the opening ceremony of the Arab Cup in Doha, and with time comes perspective. As I reflect on what unfolded at Al Bayt Stadium, I realise that what we witnessed on Sunday was not merely the start of a football tournament, it was the beginning of a conversation about who we are as Arabs, and how Qatar chooses to represent us to the world.

I have seen many opening ceremonies over the years. But Qatar, as it so often does, surprised us again, not with grandeur alone, but with intention.A ceremony that spoke louder than its spectacle

When Qatar positioned this year's event as one of the first fully FIFA-recognised Arab football ceremonies, it sent a message: our region deserves to be seen, heard and respected within global sport struck me most was the decision to open with the Palestinian national anthem. Traditionally, the host nation leads. Qatar chose differently. And in that choice was a statement far more powerful than any choreography.

For years, the Palestinian flag has been restricted at many international events under the argument that“politics should not mix with sports.” Yet on Sunday night, that flag rose clearly and proudly - not hidden, not apologised for, but embraced by a stadium filled with people who understood its weight. In those moments, it became obvious: this ceremony was telling the world something it has been too slow to acknowledge as a bridge in difficult times

One of the things I hold onto, is that football remains one of the few arenas where people can come together beyond differences. The Arab Cup is no exception it's also a reminder of the realities we live with. Even FIFA has lost staff members in Gaza. No institution, no matter how global, is untouched by what is happening in our region.

Yet the atmosphere that evening was not one of despair. It was unity, Arabs meeting Arabs, cheering together, grieving together, hoping together. And that is perhaps the most valuable contribution this tournament can offer.

Writing this column several days after the event allows me to see the bigger picture. Qatar is not just hosting matches, it is shaping a narrative.

The Arab Cup this year is a cultural project, a diplomatic gesture, a soft-power statement, and yes, a sporting event. But above all, it is a reminder that our shared identity still has power, resonance and a place in the global story.

I was asked that night who I believe will win the opening match. I said Qatar and I still believe that. But truthfully, even if Qatar does not win, something more important is happening here.

We, as Arabs, are supporting one another.

We are telling our stories on our own terms.

We are showing that unity is not a slogan, it is lived experience.

In that sense, there is no losing in this tournament.

We win by showing up, by standing together, and by letting the world see who we are.

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